A Foreign Office minister has rejected claims of a policy shift in the UK’s approach to Ukraine following Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s remarks at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet, where he emphasized the importance of placing Ukraine in a strong position for negotiations to achieve peace.
Catherine West, speaking in the House of Commons, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in securing “a just peace on its own terms,” denying that Sir Keir’s comments signaled any departure from the UK’s existing strategy.
Calls for Clarity
Conservative shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel raised concerns about the Prime Minister’s language, suggesting it could indicate a new framing of the UK’s stance. She told MPs:
“Following the Prime Minister’s comments yesterday, we need some clarity from the Government on its approach to Ukraine. At the Lord Mayor’s Banquet, the Prime Minister said it was important ‘to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for negotiation, so that they can secure a just and lasting peace on their terms.’
“Now we can all agree that Ukrainians must be able to determine their own future. But if the Government is now framing this through the lens of negotiation, does the minister believe that this would represent a departure from the current approach?”
Minister Responds
Ms. West reassured MPs that there had been no change in UK policy, emphasizing the Government’s longstanding commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty. She stated:
“The PM has been clear, including in his speech last night, that we must continue to back Ukraine and do what it takes to support self-defense for as long as it takes, because it’s for Ukraine to determine its position in any future discussions. Putin cannot be trusted. Russia has violated multiple previous agreements. The clearest path to peace is for Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukraine tomorrow and respect Ukrainian borders.”
Ukraine’s NATO Aspirations
Dame Priti also pressed the Government on Ukraine’s potential accession to NATO, highlighting the importance of unity among alliance members. Ms. West reaffirmed the UK’s support for Ukraine’s NATO membership, stating:
“Ukraine’s place is in NATO, and allies agreed in Washington on July 10 that Ukraine’s on an irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership. The UK fully supports this goal.”
Sanctions and the Russian Economy
The minister highlighted the impact of Western sanctions on Russia, noting that they had deprived the country of over $400 billion (£316 billion) since the invasion began in February 2022. She also outlined the growing challenges facing Russia’s war effort, including significant casualties, declining recruitment, and reliance on allies such as Iran and North Korea for military support.
“Our support to Ukraine is of core UK national interest,” she added. “A Russian victory would diminish the West’s global standing, create a zone of instability on our eastern flank, and embolden Putin and other autocrats.”
Prime Minister’s Commitment
Speaking at the banquet on Monday, Sir Keir vowed to continue supporting Ukraine’s self-defense and security for as long as necessary. He emphasized the need to ensure Ukraine is in a position of strength to negotiate a just peace that guarantees its independence and sovereignty.
This commitment, Ms. West clarified, aligns with existing UK policy and underscores the Government’s unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s aggression.